Patriots, DeAndre Hopkins reportedly optimistic visit will result in signing
The New England Patriots seem to be fairly confident about their chances of adding a star receiver into the midst. The Athletic's Jeff Howe reports that the Patriots will attempt to find "common ground" with DeAndre Hopkins "The free agent is planning to visit Gillette Stadium on Thursday, and there’s optimism the two sides can […]
The New England Patriots seem to be fairly confident about their chances of adding a star receiver into the midst.
The Athletic's Jeff Howe reports that the Patriots will attempt to find "common ground" with DeAndre Hopkins
"The free agent is planning to visit Gillette Stadium on Thursday, and there’s optimism the two sides can find a way to reach an agreement, according to a person with knowledge of the matter," Howe wrote.
Yet, that optimism will not guarantee that the Patriots and Hopkins will immediately agree on a contract, with Howe also noting that the cost to sign the receiver remains uncertain.
The Patriots currently have $14.2 million in cap space, which does seem to fit within the scope of what Hopkins is asking for. And that number has the possibility to go up, with New England most likely to release another receiver if they were to sign Hopkins.
Kendrick Bourne is one of the receivers on the list to be released, with the Patriots able to save $5.5 million in cap if they were to trade or release him, but would have $1.4 million in dead-cap money. There is also the possibility of trading or releasing DeVante Parker who would save up to $6.2 million with $0 in dead-cap money.
Hopkins is coming off a visit with the Tennessee Titans which reportedly went very well. The receiver missed time last season due to a PED suspension but still caught 64 passes for 717 yards with three touchdowns in nine games.
Hopkins has previous experience under New England’s current offensive coordinator, Bill O’Brien. O’Brien was Hopkins’ head coach for six years with the Houston Texans before trading the wide receiver to the Arizona Cardinals. O'Brien reportedly would be in favor of signing Hopkins.
So, will the Patriots have a new star receiver by the end of the week or will the rumors continue?
Featured Image via Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
